Career Goal Plan - Crime Scene Investigator
University of Phoenix
Survey of Correctional Program Career Opportunities
CPSS/225
15 July 2019
Crime Scene Investigator
Crime scene investigators play a key role in delivering justice when a crime is committed. They analyze the crime scene to find evidence as well as explaining on what transpired before and after the crime. For one to become a successful crime scene investigator, he or she should first start by enrolling to a degree (bachelor’s) program in criminal justice(Saldivar, 2017). After one successfully completes his bachelor’s studies, and earns a bachelor’s degree, one is then required to join a police academy. Even though, joining police academy is not compulsory it is important because many crime scene investigators are hired from the police. Certification, such as IAI certification and education advancement, such as obtaining a masters in forensic science, are really important for a successful career in crime scene investigation.
For a successful crime scene investigator career, he or she must have the following set of skills; problem solving and critical thinking(Baker, 2009), attention as well as keen to details, clear communication skills and good writing, composure and reporting skills. The following are key roles of crime scene investigators:
- Secure and protect crime scene
- Taking detailed information and measurement
- Sketching the crime scene and taking photos
- Documenting the crime scene evidence such as nature and location
- Packaging, labeling and transferring the evidence to the laboratory for analysis
- Attending autopsies
- Creation of detailed reports on the evidence and conclusions
- Presenting the findings in a court
- Maintenance, stocking as well as re-stoking of equipment used in evidence collection
I have always had strong passion for crime scene investigation, especially in piecing together crucial crime scene information that helps to unfold what happened and how it happened. Apart from passion, I am a person of integrity with interest in crime reduction, by providing credible evidence. I am also a person who pays great attention to even small details and this will come handy with being a crime investigator. I also possess good communication skills as well as impeccable report writing skills.
The main areas that I need to improve on, are on the technical knowledge, especially on procedures such as court and on autopsies and handling of the evidence. Technical knowledge is key to having a worthwhile career as a crime scene investigator. Technical knowledge, such as in forensic investigation will improve on my ability to assemble information. The other skills that I need to improve is on the composure and handling of the evidences as well as critical thinking skills.
The following are goals a that I will adopt to in preparing myself to be a successful crime scene investigator.
- Obtain the necessary technical skills through education
- Obtain the necessary experience
- Obtain the necessary certification
For my case, I have to earn or attain a bachelor’s degree in forensic science or criminal justice if I am to be successful in the career. After graduating will enroll in a police academy and upon completion will seek for certifications as well as gaining the experience and expertise. I will further my education and build my career to a competent dependable crime scene investigator.
Reference
Baker, T. E. (2009). Police criminalistics: Learning modalities and evaluation. Forensic Examiner, 18(3), 52.
Saldivar, A. (2017). Minimum Education Requirements for Crime Scene Investigators. Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science, 5(1), 10.